“Hunger Games: Catching Fire” is available to watch from the comfort of your own home on March 7th, and fans of one of year’s biggest blockbusters can choose between Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, Digital HD, Video On Demand and Pay-Per-View.
The Lionsgate film, based on the second book of Suzanne Collins’ bestselling “Hunger Games” trilogy, stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson (Peeta), and Liam Hemsworth (Gale). The story picks up after the conclusion of the 74th Hunger Games, and the survivors of the carnage in the arena embark upon a Victory Tour. However, tensions in the 12 districts mount, and Katniss finds that life in the public eye is difficult. And potentially deadly.
President Snow is keeping a close eye on her, and he demonstrates his power with the announcement regarding the 75th Hunger Games—Katniss must return to the arena with 23 other traumatized past victors.
Grossing more than $420 million at the domestic box office, “Catching Fire” is the first film with a female lead to top the annual box office since 1973’s “The Exorcist.” Not bad for a girl on fire. And with not one but two future releases, since “Mockingjay” is being split into two films, the future looks bright for Lionsgate and the franchise.
The cast and crew have been filming “Mockingjay” in Atlanta and the surrounding areas recently. I can only assume they liked filming “Catching Fire” here so much they came back. This is one of the reasons I can’t wait to actually own the film, since I was an extra in three scenes. Sadly, they were brief and went across the movie screen way too quickly. I’m hoping my wonderful pause button will help me see myself in a shot or two.
But if it doesn’t, locals and convention goers alike can delight in seeing the Marriott Marquis in several shots, including Joanna’s famous elevator scene. Dragon Con regulars should be very familiar with that hotel.
And that’s not all! The bonus features include:
BLU-RAY COMBO PACK SPECIAL FEATURES*
· “Surviving the Game: Making Catching Fire” – 9-part feature-length documentary
· Audio Commentary with Director Francis Lawrence and Producer Nina Jacobson
· Deleted Scenes
· Sneak Peek of Divergent
*Subject to change
The extras on the DVD are identical, but the 9-part documentary is not included, so if you want all the goodies, make sure you get the Blu-ray.
“Hunger Games: Catching Fire” has a suggested retail price of $39.99 for the combo pack and $29.95 for the DVD.